Mkhambathini is a Zulu word and is derived from eMkhambathini meaning a place of acacia trees.

Mkhambathini Local Municipality is one of seven Local Authorities within the uMgungundlovu District Municipality, which is situated within south west KwaZulu-Natal. Mkhambathini Local Municipality consists of 7 wards with a large part of the municipality being rural in nature and underdeveloped.